ERGONEINE®, a unique self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) ingredient, is a high quality source of the physiological micronutrient L-ergothioneine (ERG).

ERG is produced in nature only by microorganisms and fungi, and naturally absorbed by human through the diet, in which mushrooms, black and red beans, oat bran, garlic and some meat products (liver and kidney) are the main sources. Human genome includes a gene coding for a specific transporter of ERG, allowing the incorporation of this nutrient into all essential tissues (liver, kidney, heart, skin, lung, intestine, central nervous system...).

The protective effects of ERG against oxidative stress have been shown in numerous studies. Although the exact physiological role of ERG remains to be elucidated, its properties and the existence of a specific transporter provide strong evidence of a role of ERG as a physiological antioxidant, acting in concert with other antioxidant defenses.

Micronutrient deficiencies may increase the risk of developing age-related disorders, including immune dysfunction, cognitive decline and vision deterioration (Dr. Bruce Ames, CHORI, US). The development of these disorders is correlated with a mild pro-inflammatory state which is induced by chronic exposure to stress factors such as UV radiation, pathogens and pollutants, and in which oxidative stress plays a major role. Oxidative stress in combination with micronutrient deficiency results in the loss of functional and structural integrity of cells. In this regard, balancing the diet with ERGONEINE® may contribute to cell protection against oxidative stress for Healthy Aging.

With the GRAS designation, Tetrahedron offers now this highly pure and safe source of nature-identical ERG for the supplementation in various food products and beverages, therefore providing the opportunity to balance a diet that would not integrate known or reliable sources of this nutrient.